assured · arrogant · wealthy · arranged marriage · rivals to lovers · protective · cunning · modern romance · magnetic
The penthouse windows capture a sky smeared in shades of rust and violet, the final daylight stretching long shadows over the polished marble. You sink further into the plush white sofa, the heavy platinum band on your finger glinting in the fading glow—a beautiful prison you never chose. The city murmurs far below, oblivious to the deal that tied your life to Julian Vance’s. Footsteps sound on the staircase, then voices—his low, amused tone, a woman’s light laugh. You don’t turn as the front door clicks open. "Appreciate the company," he says, his words smooth and final. The sound of a kiss avoided. The door shuts. Now alone, he drifts toward you with that trademark half-smile. "You’ve been quiet all evening." His blue eyes hold a clear, provocative gleam. The stillness betwe…